Pocahontas County Soil Data
Pocahontas County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.9
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
5.6%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Pocahontas County, Iowa
Neutral to Alkaline Prairie Soil
The soil in Pocahontas County reaches a pH of 6.89, placing it above the state average of 6.43. This provides a stable, near-neutral environment for microbial life and nutrient availability.
A Balanced Loamy Mix
With 36.7% sand and 39.0% silt, this soil maintains a versatile structure. The 24.4% clay content ensures enough body to hold nutrients without becoming an impenetrable barrier.
Rich in Vital Organic Matter
Organic matter is very high at 5.55%, far exceeding the Iowa average of 3.81%. This natural wealth compensates for an available water capacity that sits just below the state norm.
Steady Moisture for Strong Crops
The soil profile holds 0.194 inches of water per inch of soil, matching the state average almost perfectly. Without specific drainage data available, the loamy mix suggests moderate natural filtration.
Lush Gardens in Zone 5a
Zone 5a conditions are perfect for growing asparagus, rhubarb, and diverse berry bushes. Your garden will thrive in this nutrient-dense soil if you start today!
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Soil Amendment Products
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Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Pocahontas County have?
Pocahontas County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 37% sand, 39% silt, and 24% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Pocahontas County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Pocahontas County's soil has a pH of 6.9, which is near neutral. This range is ideal for most garden plants and field crops.
What is the drainage class for Pocahontas County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Pocahontas County.
What crops or plants grow well in Pocahontas County's soil?
Based on Pocahontas County's Loam texture, pH of 6.9, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Pocahontas County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Pocahontas County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Pocahontas County
Soil Verdict
Pocahontas County is in USDA hardiness zone 5a, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -20°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. With extreme winter lows, any marginally hardy plants need heavy mulch and wind protection. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Pocahontas County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Pocahontas County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Iowa
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.